^{24 Ref} And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to behold? a reed shaken with the wind?

^{25 Ref} But what went ye out to see? a man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they that are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts.

^{26 Ref} But what went ye out to see? a prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet.

^{27 Ref} This is he of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, Who shall prepare thy way before thee.